Whether you have a week or a weekend free it is well worth considering a city break in one of the many spectacular English cities. There is plenty of holiday accommodation for short breaks in England, in and around some of the nation’s most popular places to visit.

You might want to go to a city to explore its historical landmarks, to head off on a shopping spree or just to enjoy the nightlife. Whatever your reason for going you should find somewhere suitable among the following options:

Bath

If you want to look at spectacular architecture there really are few better places to do so than in this West Country city, with its Roman remains, its historic abbey and its majestic curving buildings on the Royal Crescent. You will find plenty of holiday homes in and around Bath to let you spend all the time you need in the city.

The iconic Royal Crescent in Bath - one of the attractions when you take a short holiday break in the city

Durham

The first thing you usually see on the approach to Durham is the imposing cathedral which, with the city’s castle, represents one of the nation’s iconic world heritage sites. You will also find nature reserves, beaches, waterfalls and even Ashes cricket this summer. It’s all on your doorstep when you stay in a Durham holiday cottage.

London

Self-catering accommodation in London is a viable option to spending your holiday break in a hotel. You will have the option of cooking your own meals and relaxing in a comfortable environment in between touring Buckingham Palace, enjoying a musical in the West End or shopping all day in Oxford Street.

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in London - one of the great views on a city break in the capital city of England

Oxford

The university buildings only make up a fraction of the charm for those who rent holiday homes in and around Oxford. The city centre is packed with wonderful restaurants, a wide range of shops and any number of fascinating museums. There is also an opportunity to go boating on the Thames or to just enjoy relaxing in the garden of one of the cosy local pubs.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Medieval properties abound in the heart of Shakespeare’s birthplace and you will find a range of cottages in Stratford-upon-Avon which combine that historical element with the mod cons you are used to. A thriving shopping centre dotted with impressive restaurants will keep you amused before a stroll by the river to the newly-modernised RSC theatre.

York

Whether you are heading to York for a romantic breaks or a short family holiday there are a multitude of activities to suit everyone’s taste. The thriving market, the pubs and tea shops, the cathedral and tours of the castle and the Jorvik Visitor Centre make it well worth looking up holiday accommodation in York.

Cambridge

Holiday lets in and around Cambridge will give you the perfect base to explore a city full of history, with the spires of its stunning university buildings dominating the skyline in all directions. There is also a busy market, a huge range of restaurants and trips along the River Cam on the iconic punts.